Philippines’ Black Nazarene procession draws hundreds of thousands of devotees

Hundreds of thousands of barefoot devotees thronged the streets of Manila on Thursday for the annual procession of the Black Nazarene, a life-sized statue of Jesus Christ believed to have miraculous powers. This year’s event marks a return to full-scale festivities after pandemic restrictions limited the procession for the past three years.

The procession, known as the “Traslacion” (transfer), commemorates the 1787 transfer of the Black Nazarene from a church in Intramuros to its current shrine in Quiapo Church. The image is believed to have acquired its dark color after being partially burnt in a fire on board a ship carrying it from Mexico in the 17th century.

Devotees, many clad in maroon and carrying replicas of the Black Nazarene, crowded around the carriage carrying the statue, eager to touch it with their handkerchiefs or towels. They believe that doing so can bring blessings, healing, and answered prayers.

“This is my 20th time participating in the Traslacion,” said 55-year-old vendor Elena Cabral. “I’m here to give thanks for all the blessings my family has received, and to pray for good health for all of us.”

The procession is a display of intense faith and devotion, with many participants walking barefoot for the entire route, which typically lasts for several hours. The atmosphere is thick with emotion, as devotees chant prayers, sing hymns, and jostle for a chance to get closer to the statue.

Authorities have deployed thousands of police officers and medical personnel to ensure the safety of the participants. The Philippine Red Cross also set up first aid stations along the procession route to attend to those who may be injured or fall ill due to the heat and the large crowds.

The Black Nazarene procession is one of the largest religious events in the Philippines, a predominantly Catholic country. It is a testament to the deep faith of Filipinos and their enduring devotion to the Black Nazarene. 

This year’s Traslacion is particularly significant as it signals a return to normalcy after the pandemic disrupted religious gatherings. For many devotees, it is a chance to renew their faith and express their gratitude for surviving the challenges of the past few years.

The procession is expected to continue late into the night, with hundreds of thousands more devotees joining the throng as the Black Nazarene makes its way back to Quiapo Church.